Eighty Six Forever: FanPosts

Whitecaps vs Timbers: Preview

2013-05-18T05:48:39Z

Last match against the Galaxy was branded as the game we needed to pick up steam. Now that we have accomplished that, we need to continue this form. But we face the task, once again, of facing a team we have never beaten (and arguably the team that we have the worst MLS record against, 0-1-4). We have looked much better lately, but so have the Timbers, who are unbeaten in 9 matches. Good Luck Caps, and here's the key's to the match.

Be Careful with their Counter Atttacks

Most of the league (as well as any Caps defender who has played the Timbers) knows Portland is deadly on their famous counter attacks. Most goals we have conceded against our rivals have been on the counter attack. Our Caps fullbacks will need be on the top of their game to not only come forward and attack, but rush back when they are needed.

Create Chances

It's never a good thing when not only do I not know who to choose for my Bell Predict a Goal, but I don't know who CANscore for the Caps. We have five scorers who have scored two goals, which is good for the teams morale, but I wouldn't mind getting a player or too who is reliable to score. Look at the options: Mattocks has failed me every time I picked him, Miller is out, Camilo hasn't scored since Dallas, Tiebert need's to prove himself in the attacking department for more then one game, Hertzog isn't playing enough and Koffie is playing more defensive. CAPS! GO GET SOME GOALS!

Get into it

I thought it was great that Zach Meisenheimer traveled on the road and gave the Vancouver Whitecaps a pre game pep talk. His motivation seemed to work, and we played defensively sound. The Caps need to realize that us as supporters want this Cascadia Cup, as well as other trophies. We need this win to kick start our Cascadia career. No pressure.

Predicted Line-Up:

Knighton, Rochat, Rusin, O'Brien, Y.P. Lee, Reo-Coker, Davidosn, Koffie, Camilo, Mattocks, Tiebert

Predicted Score:

2-0 for the Caps

Rochat (21), Koffie (55)

Alain Rochat gets a great feed from Tiebert to free him on the right wing where the Timber defenders anticipate his cross but Rochat decides to pound it top corner short side. Gershon Koffie gets us the 2-0 lead after he bursts through the defence by himself and curls it far top corner.

A good win for the Caps certainly gives us the confidence and momentum for the next few months. Lets go Caps!

Be Careful with their Counter Atttacks

Create Chances

Get into it

Predicted Line-Up:

Knighton, Rochat, Rusin, O'Brien, Y.P. Lee, Reo-Coker, Davidosn, Koffie, Camilo, Mattocks, Tiebert

Predicted Score:

2-0 for the Caps

Rochat (21), Koffie (55)

A good win for the Caps certainly gives us the confidence and momentum for the next few months. Lets go Caps!

Whitecaps vs Impact First Leg: Preview

2013-05-15T01:33:47Z

Well were here gain. Amway finals. We've always had a tough time in the finals of this competition. Although we've made it to the finals each year since we've been an MLS franchise, our team has lacked the passion and hunger to win and enter the Concacaf Champions League. But the past (although Jun Marquez's dive last year seems to have slightly tainted our organizations's standers) is the past. The headlines can be "Lucky Third Time" or "Third Time Unlucky." Lets hope for the first, and here's the key's to the match.

Defensive Line-up

The first time in MLS action this year that we have put three on the board was arguably with our most defensive line-up. I can't describe why this worked, but I wouldn't question it. Even though or first half lacked a spark, the second 45 was passion at it's finest. I predict a near similar line-up to the one against LA.

(Try to) Control the Tempo

Having a key to control the tempo against the hottest team, on the road and without key player's is certainly easier said then done. That's where the italic (Try to) comes in. The Caps will have a tough time getting chances and holding the ball in front of a massive, enthusiastic Montreal crowd. If we can get 45% possession, I would consider that a win.

Give Me Reo-Cee

For sure our MVP at this point in the season, Nigel Reo-Coker's aggressive and can-do attitude will be appreciated in a hostile Quebec crowd. Were going to need his surging runs and delicious crosses into our strikers all game. Saying that, I think him playing a more defensive role will be more of a GOOD for us. I have enjoyed Nigel's attacking side, but on the road, him playing as a strong center mid wouldn't be the worst thing for us.

Predicted Starting Line-Up:

Cannon, Harvey, Levron, O'Brien, Rochat, Davidson, Koffie, Reo-C, Tiebert, Heinemann, Mattocks

Predicted Score:

2-1 for Montreal (not neccesarily a bad thing)

Di Vaio (13), Mattocks (48), Mapp (74)

Di Vaio makes a flatline run along our defenders and slots the ball into the bottom corner. Darren Mattocks gets us back into the game after he runs on to a long ball by O'brien that gets fumbled by the Montreal defence, and puts it hard into the short side top corner. I should note that Heinemann rattles a header of the bar, and his curly locks get burried into his hands. Soon after, Mapp fires a shot off a counter attack that finds the back of the net. Montreal could have gotten more after, but the Caps hold on being only one behind (by having that all important away goal).

In reality, a great result for the Caps. All we need is a 1-0 win when we come back to BC place and were hoisting the cup. Once again, in reality, a 1-0 won't be easy as it seems.

Go Caps!

P.S. check out my Goods and Bads story after the game. Thanks y'all

Defensive Line-up

(Try to) Control the Tempo

Give Me Reo-Cee

Predicted Starting Line-Up:

Cannon, Harvey, Levron, O'Brien, Rochat, Davidson, Koffie, Reo-C, Tiebert, Heinemann, Mattocks

Predicted Score:

2-1 for Montreal (not neccesarily a bad thing)

Di Vaio (13), Mattocks (48), Mapp (74)

In reality, a great result for the Caps. All we need is a 1-0 win when we come back to BC place and were hoisting the cup. Once again, in reality, a 1-0 won't be easy as it seems.

Go Caps!

P.S. check out my Goods and Bads story after the game. Thanks y'all

Poll

Will the Caps..

Whitecaps vs LA: Goods/Bads

2013-05-12T05:55:57Z

If anyone cares, I was thinking about doing a sort of match analysis with the Goods and the Bads of the match.

Lets see how this works out.

GOODS:

Russel Tiebert: Kinda an obvious pick for any one who watched the game. Scoring his first two MLS goals (now in a 4 way tie for team leader) he also put in dangerous crosses and played a fast game. The coaches and trainers and said that Russel had been practicing his crossing all week and I can say that it payed off. His second goal was largely thanks to Gershon Koffie's excellent play, but the first was all Russel Tiebert. Does anyone else get chills from the replay's of him celebrating?

Gershon Koffie:

Gershon showed us the dancing Ghanian we fell in love with last year. Setting up the second and third goals while staying his "cool calm and collected" self, Gershon may have been my Man of the Match. He used his strength and played that more attacking role he thrives in. He's showing us what he can bring.

Darren Mattocks:

After finally getting the goal he deserves, Mattocks had an all around good game. He finished his final chance well and created his own throughout the game. Also, this has been one of the first game Darren has started and played the full 90, which shows his stamina improvement.

Our Centre-Backs:

Without Jay Demerit, this could become our go to back line. Andy O'Brien brings the experience and strength and Johnny Leveron brings a pace and flair we have never had in that position. It's not to say that Leveron didn't make mistakes, but as a young, work in progress, he has a bright future that hopefully remains at the club.

BADS:

Our Full-Backs:

Although the centre of our D was good, the Caps left and right back's seemed to be constantly out of position or making mistakes. Rochat primarily had a bad game, leaving room for defenders and playing the wrong balls at the wrong time. Y.P. Lee looked alright, but from Y.P, I think we always expect the best. I mean we've seen him do better.

Daigo Kobayashi:

Not necessarily a bad on his behalf, but an injury as we approach a long stretch of games would not benefit the team. It's no secret I haven't been the biggest fan of the Japanese midfielder, but losing a key playmaker as we come upon big MLS games as well as our Amway final's is a certain BAD.

Although, that's just how I read the game. Comment below any changes you would have. And hopefully I can continue this article for the coming games!

If anyone cares, I was thinking about doing a sort of match analysis with the Goods and the Bads of the match.

Lets see how this works out.

GOODS:

Gershon Koffie:

Darren Mattocks:

Our Centre-Backs:

BADS:

Our Full-Backs:

Daigo Kobayashi:

Although, that's just how I read the game. Comment below any changes you would have. And hopefully I can continue this article for the coming games!

Whitecaps vs LA: Preview

2013-05-10T00:01:13Z

Theirs no denying the Whitecaps recent slump. The same kind of slump that hit them last year (if not, worse). Some disappointing performances and some disappointing results have left fans wondering what went wrong. Not saying that we didn't have this same dilema last year around the same time, but it must be remembered that we were able to get out of that slump. Around the same time as well. Theirs no better time to get out of this hole then beating the team we've never eaten.

Here's the key's to the match.

1. Create Chances

Although we had a handf- bucketfull of chances against FC Dallas, we were less productive last week when we played Real Salt Lake. The lightning rod for the criticism regarding chance creating has definitely been Japanese attacking-midfielder Daigo Kobayashi. It felt like Daigo was going to be our new Davide Chuimiento when he first came, scoring and assisting our first two matches. Since then he has been lackluster hasn't been able to recreate the magic at home. Assuming Rennie starts him, Daigo will have to start playing some nice through balls to our forwards if we want to score.

2. Miller Time

As I am writing this midweek before the game, I am without the status on Kenny Miller's injury. As nobody reads this usually, I will go with my gut and say he's ready. But, knowing Rennie, he will probably be over conscience and sub him on early in the second. With Kenny's stamina (as well as likely not playing the full 90), Miller should be constantly running on to balls and pressuring the defence. A goal for our Scotsman would not be out of the question.

3. Passion

The Caps didn't feel like they were playing a league game last week; they felt like it was a reserve match or preseason. We need the Caps from the begininning of the season, who were pumped and wanted to win. We have felt undetermined lately (other then the 2-2 match vs. Dallas). Our players and fans need to fuel them through the full 90 and towards victory.

Predicted Starting Line-Up

Knighton, Y.P, Levron, O'Brien, Rochat, Tiebert, Reo-C, Koffie, Kobayashi, Camilo, Mattocks

Predicted Score: 3-2 for the Caps

Koffie (15), Magee (22), Magee (35), Camilo (53), Manneh (86)

Koffie slides a shot into the top corner from just inside the break after the Galaxy defenders anticipate him to pass.Magee pounces on a defensive error from Rusin as he is unable to clear the ball from a far free-kick and Magee is their to tap it in. Magee gets his brace with a well tucked shot into the short side corner when inside the 18. Junihno plays a square ball, leaving the league leading scorer too much space. Camilo continues his good form using his skills to get past DeLagarza and puts the ball off the post and in. Manneh finishes the comeback after coming on as a substitute. He gets a great ball from Camilo late on during a brilliant counter attack and rounds the keeper to put the game away.

I anticipate the best game of the season on Saturday. Just the build-up and backstory indicates something spectacular for the Caps (and Galaxy).

Good Luck Vancouver!

Here's the key's to the match.

1. Create Chances

2. Miller Time

3. Passion

Predicted Starting Line-Up

Knighton, Y.P, Levron, O'Brien, Rochat, Tiebert, Reo-C, Koffie, Kobayashi, Camilo, Mattocks

Predicted Score: 3-2 for the Caps

Koffie (15), Magee (22), Magee (35), Camilo (53), Manneh (86)

I anticipate the best game of the season on Saturday. Just the build-up and backstory indicates something spectacular for the Caps (and Galaxy).

Good Luck Vancouver!

Whitecaps vs RSL: Preview

2013-05-04T17:31:28Z

In our second match this season playing a team we have previously played (first was the back to back against FC Dallas) we will be looking for our first road win. In the first game against Dallas, we played dreadful, but in the second leg, we were a different team. The Whitecaps will try and recreate that on the road in Salt Lake City. After a dominating game against FC Edmonton, our Whitecaps should be confident and ready. RSL on the other hand suffered a 2-0 loss to the LA Galaxy and will be looking to bounce back. Here's the key's to the match/

1. Shots on Net

If anyone saw Rob Scott's article about the shots to goal ratio in the MLS (http://www.eightysixforever.com/2013/5/2/3234597/learning-to-crawl-with-tableau), you will realize what a difference shots on goal makes in comparisson to balls in the back of the net. The Caps had an abundance of chances on Wednesday, which led to their victory. Let's just hope Mattocks can begin putting them in....

Which leads me to my next point, 2. GET MATTOCKS A GOAL

Darren Mattocks confidence is slowly diminishing as he goes without a goal in what seems like last year. If we want Darren to get back to scoring goals, were going to help him with a bit of a push. Player's like Camilo, Nigel Reo-Coker and Daigo Kobayashi need to feed balls to Mattocks constantly and help him score.

3. Good Goalkeeping

Since RSL is without leading goalscorer Saborio, Real Salt Lake will likely look to shoot from the midfield, and probably from distance. Our defence is going to need to close down their mids and Cannon (or Knighton?) will need to be on top of his game.

Predicted Line-Up:

In a 4-1-2-1-2 (formation against Edmonton)

Cannon, Rochat, Levron, O'Brien, Y.P. Lee, Tiebert, Koffie, Reo-Coker, Camilo, Hertzog, Mattocks.

Predicted Score:

2-1 for the Caps

Morales (67), Hertzog (76), Mattocks (80)

A through ball is played across the face of goal and Morales is their to tip it in.

Hertzog finds himself on the end of Reo-Coker cross and similar to Morales, tips it in.

Darren Mattocks outpaces the RSL defence after a good through ball from Tiebert goes near the corner, and on his own, he cuts around Real Salt Lake and power's it into the far bottom corner.

Final Reflection:

Another good comeback for the Caps, where we seemingly have no weak links. RSL holds most possesion but fail to take very good chances. The Caps have a few chances in the first half, but fail to compete in the beginning of the final 45. Once the Caps go one down, Captain Reo-C pumps them up (as usual) and the Caps escape with three points. Cannon performs well after lots of critisizem and our defence looks sharp.

1. Shots on Net

Which leads me to my next point, 2. GET MATTOCKS A GOAL

3. Good Goalkeeping

Predicted Line-Up:

In a 4-1-2-1-2 (formation against Edmonton)

Cannon, Rochat, Levron, O'Brien, Y.P. Lee, Tiebert, Koffie, Reo-Coker, Camilo, Hertzog, Mattocks.

Predicted Score:

2-1 for the Caps

Morales (67), Hertzog (76), Mattocks (80)

A through ball is played across the face of goal and Morales is their to tip it in.

Hertzog finds himself on the end of Reo-Coker cross and similar to Morales, tips it in.

Darren Mattocks outpaces the RSL defence after a good through ball from Tiebert goes near the corner, and on his own, he cuts around Real Salt Lake and power's it into the far bottom corner.

Final Reflection:

Poll

Will the Caps...

Win

0 votes

Tie

1 votes

Lose

0 votes

1 votes | Poll has closed

Youth is full of sport, age's breath is short

2013-05-03T20:55:59Z

I read with interest that the Whitecaps have (finally!) signed nineteen year old Aminu Abdallah after an extended and successful trial period. I saw the youngster in a pre-season friendly in Victoria and was impressed with his play. He stood out for his energy and for his height which, at 6' 3", makes him only the seventh player on the roster over that height. He is now one of nineteen players under twenty-five, one of six under 21 and one of three teenagers on the organization's roster, not counting players on loan who increase all of those numbers.

At first blush the youthful roster encouraged me as it promised growth, development and potential. On reflection however, I wonder whether it is the best option for turning VWFC into a perennial contender and, ultimately, a winner in MLS.

Watching the struggles of the likes of Darren Mattocks, Kekuta Manneh and Erik Hurtado over the past few weeks has brought home the realization that despite tons of skill, talent and potential, these young players are, in the final analysis, neophytes who will take time to learn their trade and hone their skills before they can contribute on a consistent and effective basis. We have, on the other hand, the example of the emergence of Russell Tiebert, and, to an extent, Corey Hertzog as proof of the fact that these youngsters, handled with patience and properly guided, taught and developed, will eventually mature into solid MLS talents. With Tiebert we even have the hopes of an International career in the offing.

So, my question is, will the Whitecaps have the patience to develop these youngsters into bona fide MLS players (and perhaps stars) or will the pressure to win right now force the organization to bring in more established, mature stars thus limiting the playing time available to the fledglings. Because playing time is what they need. Practice time is valuable too as is the mentoring of experienced players but in the end, time on the field is key to the development of young players. The Whitecaps already have a number of youngsters finding playing time on loan to other clubs but when you add the loaners to the mix, the pressure for time from the young bloods is going to be enormous.

Developing players also have a potential economic impact as developed players unable to find a place on the Whitecaps' roster may be attractive to other clubs and thus bring benefits such as players, draft choices, and even revenue to the organization. They would also, hopefully, provide a steady supply of capable young talent to replace players moving on from the Whitecaps through retirement, trades or purchase from other leagues.

I suspect, however, that most Whitecaps fans wont be satisfied with intangible rewards and will want to see trophies and championships coming to the club and that just may not be achievable with so many youngsters on the roster. The skill, therefore, will be in finding the balance. With Jay Demerit, Nigel Reo-Coker, Kenny Miller and Andy O'Brien as role models and mentors in the fold the side already has a good nucleus of leadership in place but is it enough to get this edition of the Whitecaps over the hump?

For those who are interested, the title of this piece comes from the poem "Crabbed Age and Youth" attributed by many (but not all) scholars to William Shakespeare which reads, in part,

Youth is full of sport, age's breath is short.

Youth is nimble, age is lame.

Youth is hot and bold,

Age is weak and cold.

Youth is wild and age is tame

The tension between youth and age has been with us since the dawn of time or, at least as this poem proves, the sixteenth century.. So has the desire of sports fans to see their team win things, almost at any cost. Can Bob Lenarduzzi, Martin Rennie et al find the balance between youth and age that will enable our beloved Whitecaps to be all things to all men?

All will be revealed in the fullness of time.

For those who are interested, the title of this piece comes from the poem "Crabbed Age and Youth" attributed by many (but not all) scholars to William Shakespeare which reads, in part,

Youth is full of sport, age's breath is short.

Youth is nimble, age is lame.

Youth is hot and bold,

Age is weak and cold.

Youth is wild and age is tame

All will be revealed in the fullness of time.

Whitecaps vs Edmonton FC: Second Leg Preview

2013-05-01T00:22:09Z

The first leg was interesting. Interesting as in I don't know how to sum it up. You can say we were lucky to get away with the win, you can say we should have won. I personally think we were lucky, against a far better FC Edmonton side then we had predicted.

Can we beat Edmonton? Can we finish the job? With that in mind, here's the key's to the match.

1. Effective in the Box

The Caps have lacked a certain "umph" when it comes to finishing our chances. We have been lazy and not focussed with some golden opportunity's lately (despite putting two on the board last match), and I certainly don't want this trend continuing in a cup match where we only lead by one. If we can beat this Edmonton side, we can beat them by a few goals.

2. Defending Set Pieces

The past six goal's against the Cap's have either came from a set piece or header (most from both options). This should not even be an option against a weaker FC Edmonton side. Their team should in no way be able to score goals that we are already set up for. The only kind of goal they should get (not that they should score at all) is something flukey. We need to pick up our defence.

3. Crowd Support

This one looks to be a silly cliché, a "you can do it if you believe" type point. But with the energy we had against FC Dallas this week, having such an effect on our player's and toll on their player's, it simply helped the Whitecaps. I'm not sure if I have ever seen the crowd been so involved, even when we were down. That was the kind of environment that we have always wanted, that team's like the Seattle Sounder's and Portland Timber's have always had, and what our player's deserved. It energized them, spawned the comeback, and it would be stupid of us not to recreate it tomorrow.

Predicted Starting Line-Up

Knighton, Klazura, Rusin, Levron, Harvey, Davidson, Tiebert, Manneh, Camilo, Mattocks, Heinemann

Predicted Score

2-0 for the Whitecaps

Heinemann (68), Mattocks (83)

Great defensive and offensive game for the Whitecaps. We play strong and seldom let Edmonton anywhere near the goal.

Heinemann knocks in a cross from Camilo to score.

Mattocks runs on to a great through ball from Tiebert, rounds the keeper, and puts the game away.

An excellent game for the Caps, and a real confidence booster for Darren Mattocks.

Hope to see Vancouver in Amway Final's!

Can we beat Edmonton? Can we finish the job? With that in mind, here's the key's to the match.

1. Effective in the Box

2. Defending Set Pieces

3. Crowd Support

Predicted Starting Line-Up

Knighton, Klazura, Rusin, Levron, Harvey, Davidson, Tiebert, Manneh, Camilo, Mattocks, Heinemann

Predicted Score

2-0 for the Whitecaps

Heinemann (68), Mattocks (83)

Great defensive and offensive game for the Whitecaps. We play strong and seldom let Edmonton anywhere near the goal.

Heinemann knocks in a cross from Camilo to score.

Mattocks runs on to a great through ball from Tiebert, rounds the keeper, and puts the game away.

An excellent game for the Caps, and a real confidence booster for Darren Mattocks.

Hope to see Vancouver in Amway Final's!

A Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Production

2013-04-28T06:24:09Z

I am a Whitecaps FC fan and my focus is bound to be upon the Whitecaps and their performance but before I consider that I am compelled to say that in many, many decades of watching football (I hesitate to mention the exact number of decades it has been) I have never been unfortunate enough to witness as contemptible, shameful and dishonourable a performance as that delivered this afternoon by FC Dallas. They disgraced themselves, embarrassed their fans and gave MLS, whose avowed aim is to become one of the top leagues in world soccer in the foreseeable future, a serious black eye. How can anyone who knows and loves the beautiful game admire this side? Can't be done.

I found the first half and the opening minutes of the second immensely frustrating. Granted the Dallas tactic of slowing down the game and preventing any rhythm or flow from being created was part of it but the Whitecaps own inadequacy was a large factor as well. As chance after chance was squandered and bad passes or poor touches scuttled every foray up-field I found myself wondering what it was that had us all so excited about this side's potential for the coming season. Throughout training camp we talked about a solid defensive core, a more creative mid-field and blistering speed in attack then a flurry of pre-season goals had us salivating for the start of league play. The first two games weren't quite as dynamic as we hope they might be but they were victories and then we went on the road for a long, long time. Losses and spiritless draws began to accrue and the Vancouver tradition of eating our young reared it's ugly head. The inevitable calls for Martin Rennie's dismissal began to ring out in the media and the blogs. Second guessing of the manager's team selection became the topic of conversation before and after each match. All of the optimism and enthusiasm began to drain away.

And it carried on into this match. By the end of the first half I was tearing my hair out in frustration and had a list of questions I was unable to prioritize. What was more frustrating? The Whitecaps' defense, particularly on set pieces?; Dallas' diving and delaying tactics?; The Whitecaps' finishing?; The referee?; Darren Mattocks?.

Then, after Dallas' goal at the start of the second half seemingly sucked the hope and life out of everything, something lit a spark that ignited the Whitecaps and the game and reminded me of what it was that had us so excited. Energy. Aggression. Creativity. Wonderful, fluid ball movement. Quick precise passes. And, wonder of wonders, Manneh and Camilo putting the ball behind a barely adequate goal-keeper to knot the score. Kekuta Manneh's entry brought pace and flair to the game but the real spark was the play of the Captain Nigel Reo-Coker. Over the past several games Reo-C has begun to establish himself as the heart and motor of this side and he is displaying the leadership qualities that the management told us to expect when they signed him in the off-season. He was a rock. His calm and control gradually wrestled the momentum towards our favour and his vision and aggressive runs dragged everyone else along until the Whitecaps were coming at Dallas in waves. It also became evident that defending is much easier when the game is mostly being played in the other side's half. It was, beyond a doubt, the best half of football from the Whitecaps this season. Perhaps in any season.

And, to use the cliche that Martin Rennie loves so much, it has given us something substantial upon which to build. The players will take confidence from this performance as they face the next phase of the MLS season. Those of you who have been kind enough to read my offerings on this blog recently will know I feel that the series of games beginning with Dallas today then away to Real Salt Lake followed by back-to-back home dates with The Galaxy and Portland, all teams ahead of the Whitecaps in the Western Conference standing as of this evening, is a critical point in the MLS season. It offers an opportunity to gain some ground on the teams we will be contending for a playoff spot with. Alternatively, if the 'Caps don't play well in these games they could find themselves so far behind the pace that they will never be able to catch up. Today's draw against the best team in the league, and I think all Whitecap fans and football fans everywhere know how difficult it is to write those words after what Dallas showed us today, is an excellent start.

The debates about tactics and team selection will continue, and will probably intensify when Kenny Miller is available for selection. That is part of the fun of being a fan. We can talk about Davidson's play and how to best use Kobayashi and when to include Johnny Leveron but the cycle of negativity has been broken and we can go forward with renewed optimism and enthusiasm.

One caveat. Kekuta Manneh had a great game but he is an eighteen year old rookie with loads of up-side but don't think that he is a savior. We can have great hopes for him but he could well be ruined by heaping pressure and expectations on him at such an early stage of his career and after one good showing. We need look no further than Darren Mattocks for proof of that.

So well done Whitecaps. The monstrous Mr. Hyde has turned back into the kindly Dr. Jekyll. Lets hope that this transformation is a permanent one.

Whitecaps vs Dallas: Preview

2013-04-27T05:20:57Z

I repeat: I hate Dallas. I don't like their team or their silly little videos that really aren't even clever. But again I repeat: I will try and make this article fair. Here's the key's to the match.

1. Physical Dominance

Apart from all their 5 foot 5 divers, Dallas has a large line-up, with bulky statures. Last week, some of our weaker players were basically bullied out their. If we can be strong on the ball and in the air, we can succeed. Assuming Mattocks start's, we will need him in the air, and to stop heading balls at the keeper *cough* Edmonton *cough*

2. Reo-C Attacking

When you play the best team in the league, your going to need to take some risks to get a result. That means bringing up more defensive players, particularly Nigel Reo-Coker, to push the ball down the field and attack. He has shown his physical aggression and hunger, he just need's to find the fine line between attacking the ball and attacking a person. Control yourself Nigel, but in no way should you hold back.

3. Put some shots on Net

Raul Fernandez, FC Dallas's goalkeeper, is quite young and unexperienced. You can argue that he already has four clean sheets, but I can counter and ask "Has he really been tested?" The only extremely tough club they have played yet is the L.A. Galaxy, who I should note were down to ten men before the final whistle. Long shot's from Gershon Koffie, Daigo Kobayashi and Nigel Reo-Coker are the kind of goal's that will go in at some point.

Predicted Starting Line-Up:

Cannon, Y.P. Lee, Rusin, O'Brien, Rochat, Koffie, Reo-Coker, Kobayashi, Camilo, Tiebert, Mattocks

And yes, I realize this is the Starting XI from the Province, I just think it could happen.

Predicted Score:

3-2 for the Caps (Sorry I keep on having such high expectation's, I can feel it this time though).

Goals:

Perez (19), Koffie (44), Cooper (56), Camilo (77), Miller (90+1)

Perez pick's up the scrap's from a David Ferriera shot as it spills out of Joe Cannon's hand's.

Koffie scores after a beautiful tic-tac-toe play between him and Diago Kobayashi finds him with a free shot inside the box and he put's in the far corner.

Cooper nail's home a shot from inside the box into the far right corner to put Dallas in driver's seat. The marking from Rusin is questionable, as he is left with acres of space.

Camilo cut's inside after mesmerizing step-over's and shimmy's allow him to get past George John. He slots it into the bottom corner.

Miller comes on as a substitute, and finishes the comeback after our pressure gets to FC Dallas. Nigel Reo-Coker splits the defence and Kenny Miller is away just inside the box. He goes high (as alway's) and put's it past Fernandez.

This game will be a real coming out game for the whole team. We will mesh better then ever, and come away with a result we wouldn't have expected.

I repeat: I hate Dallas. I don't like their team or their silly little videos that really aren't even clever. But again I repeat: I will try and make this article fair. Here's the key's to the match.

1. Physical Dominance

2. Reo-C Attacking

3. Put some shots on Net

Predicted Starting Line-Up:

Cannon, Y.P. Lee, Rusin, O'Brien, Rochat, Koffie, Reo-Coker, Kobayashi, Camilo, Tiebert, Mattocks

And yes, I realize this is the Starting XI from the Province, I just think it could happen.

Predicted Score:

3-2 for the Caps (Sorry I keep on having such high expectation's, I can feel it this time though).

Goals:

Perez (19), Koffie (44), Cooper (56), Camilo (77), Miller (90+1)

Perez pick's up the scrap's from a David Ferriera shot as it spills out of Joe Cannon's hand's.

Koffie scores after a beautiful tic-tac-toe play between him and Diago Kobayashi finds him with a free shot inside the box and he put's in the far corner.

Cooper nail's home a shot from inside the box into the far right corner to put Dallas in driver's seat. The marking from Rusin is questionable, as he is left with acres of space.

Camilo cut's inside after mesmerizing step-over's and shimmy's allow him to get past George John. He slots it into the bottom corner.

This game will be a real coming out game for the whole team. We will mesh better then ever, and come away with a result we wouldn't have expected.

Poll

Your thought's

Win

0 votes

Tie

0 votes

Lose :(

0 votes

0 votes | Poll has closed

Whitecaps vs FC Edmonton: First Leg Preview

2013-04-24T00:29:11Z

Thank God we have a game during the week to distract us from the Dallas train wreck.

The Caps, whoever started last saturday, watched from the bench or didn't even make the trip, will be hungry for a win, especially on the road.

Personally, I sometimes think the fan's laugh off the early games against Edmonton; their still a respectable team and posses the talent to maybe underdog it. Either way, here's the keys to the match.

1. Control the Tempo

When the Caps are playing a lower level team, it shouldn't be a problem. But last year on the away match, FC Edmonton controlled the tempo for long spells and I feel we were lucky to score two goals. This time, we should hold the ball and put a few in the back of the net.

2. Fullbacks

Our last few games, Y.P. hasn't performed great and Rochat has been non-existent, except when he messes up. Assuming we play Harvey, it would be nice to see him whip in a few crosses like last year. Pace on the outside will be key in a road game.

3. Pace Monsters

Tomorrow will be a great game for player's like Eric Hurtado and Kekuta Manneh, since Edmonton won't be able to handle their speed and their confidence might take a massive boost if they can play well and maybe put one in the back of the net.

Predicted Starting Line-Up:

I should note that with a game like this, the line-up can extremely vary. This lineup is just something that COULD happen.

Knighton, Klazura, Levron, Rusin, Harvey, Koffie, Tiebert, Reo-C, Manneh, Hurtado, Camilo

Predicted Score:

3-1 for the Caps

Camilo (17), Hurtado (74), Mattoks (89)

Camilo picks the top corner on a free kick just outside the box. Hurtado puts in a breakaway late and Mattoks knocks in a cross from Reo-Coker with his left foot.

Edmonton (I don't even know their players) puts one bast Knighton with a header in 67th.

Vancouver looks by far the dominant team and could have scored more. Our attack looks worlds better and the midfield is able to control the tempo and feed great balls. Our defence is solid but nothing to brag about. Edmonton's goal could have been prevented with spotty defence from Levron (who seems out of place, but shows potential).

The Caps look so much better then they did against Dallas, and show that they can beat the Toros, this Saturday.

Thank God we have a game during the week to distract us from the Dallas train wreck.

The Caps, whoever started last saturday, watched from the bench or didn't even make the trip, will be hungry for a win, especially on the road.

1. Control the Tempo

2. Fullbacks

3. Pace Monsters

Predicted Starting Line-Up:

I should note that with a game like this, the line-up can extremely vary. This lineup is just something that COULD happen.

Knighton, Klazura, Levron, Rusin, Harvey, Koffie, Tiebert, Reo-C, Manneh, Hurtado, Camilo

Predicted Score:

3-1 for the Caps

Camilo (17), Hurtado (74), Mattoks (89)

Camilo picks the top corner on a free kick just outside the box. Hurtado puts in a breakaway late and Mattoks knocks in a cross from Reo-Coker with his left foot.

Edmonton (I don't even know their players) puts one bast Knighton with a header in 67th.

The Caps look so much better then they did against Dallas, and show that they can beat the Toros, this Saturday.

Backpedling, a bit

2013-04-22T15:50:19Z

Upon reflection, I have come to realize that my reaction to Saturday's disappointing performance in Frisco was an over-reaction of the type that I find so frustrating in many other observers. I am not suggesting that my perception of the match as a step backwards for a side that has been playing competitively early in this season but my conclusion that this one poor performance, and it was a very poor performance, defines the season thus far or is an indication that the rest of the season might as well be scrapped, was hasty, to say the least. The players, bar Joe Cannon, played poorly and the side that Martin Rennie chose to field was anemic at best but once the disappointment has subsided I realize that I must follow my own prescription of patience and perspective and wait a bit longer before sounding the alarm and calling out the militia.

Borrowing a page from Martin Rennie's Positivity Handbook, perhaps there are a few if not positives at least rationalizations to be drawn from the match which, whilst not excusing the poor performance, at least offers a ray of hope that the way ahead may not be as bleak and hopeless as it felt to me on Saturday night.

Perhaps the team selection on Saturday indicates that he coaching staff is still trying to figure out what they have and how to best use it in what is, after all, a significantly revamped squad from last season.

Perhaps, as Joe Canon so eloquently put it in his post-match comments, they just chose "a rough night to have a rough night.

Perhaps Rennie's strategy will become clear to us on Wednesday in Edmonton when the first shot towards what I feel is one of the principal goals for this season, qualification for the CONCACAF tournament by winning the Canadian Championship, is fired.

Perhaps next Saturday's rematch on their home turf will give us a better idea of what form this side will take for the meaty part of the season and show whether they have the character and resilience to rebound from a miserable performance.

Perhaps the 2013 season will be defined by what happens over the next few weeks rather than by what happened in Frisco on April 19.

Perhaps. But I am still trying to understand that performance and wonder what other Whitecaps supporters think was the main problem on that evening. I have formed my question as a poll, partly because I want to know and partly because I want to play with the poll feature. Here it is:

Perhaps, as Joe Canon so eloquently put it in his post-match comments, they just chose "a rough night to have a rough night.

Perhaps the 2013 season will be defined by what happens over the next few weeks rather than by what happened in Frisco on April 19.

Poll

What was the Whitecaps' main problem revealed in the 2- nil loss to FC Dallas on Saturday night?

Martin Rennie's team selection and formation.

1 votes

The back four were exposed as slow and ponderous.

0 votes

The only offense the 'Caps created was against the good name of football itself.

1 votes

The 'Caps couldn't complete a pass of their own or prevent Dallas from knocking the ball around at will

0 votes

The 'Caps haven't had a bounce or a break that isn't a leg since game two.

0 votes

2 votes | Poll has closed

Vancouver vs Dallas Preview

2013-04-20T05:10:51Z

Let me start this off by saying, I hate FC Dallas. With an absolute passion. I didn't like them last year, I don't like them now. Hassli being traded truly aggravated me, since I will never hate Hassli.

So to clarify, I love Hassli, but I hate all his diving, boasting, thematics, dramatics and cheating teammates.

So I will try and do this article somewhat unbiased (don't expect much.) Here are my keys to the match:

1. Attack the Back Line

If anyone is familiar with the Dallas line-up, you know they are fearfully strong up front, but surprisingly weak and shorthanded at the back. If we want to score some goals, were going to need to muscle out some gritty and probably lucky goals. That's where players like Hertzog (injured) and Heinemann will be useful to us. Neither of them our flash and pace, their clinical finishers and will grind out every chance they get.

2. Cannon Time

It's hard to say any of the goal's this year were Joe's fault, because they weren't. But we've had too many defensive errors, and frankly, i'm tired of pointing them out. I would just like it if once, Joe could surprise us, and save something remarkably, cause that's what goalies are meant to do, isn't it? If Joe never stopped any good goals, and only blocked the easy ones, you might as well throw Levron in net!

3. Give Tiebert Room

The predicted line-up in the Province this morning had Russel Tiebert playing in the attacking midfielder spot, that Kenny Miller had occupied before his injury. I would love to see this happen. We must remember that Tiebert was a fullback, and then a winger. Those are both spots that have lots of space to roam. Tiebert and the Caps will benefit if Tiebert can use his pace in the open area's and split the defence.

Predicted Line-up:

Cannon, Y.P, Rusin, O'brien, Rochat, Reo-Coker, Koffie, Tiebert, Kobayashi, Camilo, Hurtado

Predicted Score:

2-2

Camilo (20), Castillo (58) , Camilo (66), Perez (75)

Camilo scores a brace, and he seemed to take the criticism on his finishing to heart. He scored off a beautiful through ball from Koffie while the Caps hold possession around the box. Camilo has a good first touch and smacks it above the goalie to get an early lead.

Castillo finds the back of the net after he uses his pace around Rochat and dangles past Rusin to slot one in past a scrambling Cannon.

Camilo quickly get's one back after Hurtado bursts past a defender and play's in a low cross that Camilo settles and fires into the bottom corner.

Sadly, Perez connects with a header late on to complete FC Dallas's abundance of chances. A corner is whipped in and he is able to flick the header backwards and into the far corner.

Final Reflections:

I think that even though the Caps were dominated, they will be happy to get out of that game with a tie. Dallas should have won, but for once, we will get the luck on the road. Camilo plays excellent and finishes his chances well. Hurtado will continue to grow and Kobayashi will be somewhat quiet, similar to last week.

Tiebert will flow well and Koffie seems refreshed and works very hard. Reo-Coker seemes a bit off, and has a few bad turnovers.

Our defence is better, but still a work in progress. Cannon denies a late chance from Dallas in the dying minutes to secure the point.

P.S.

Sorry this is late, I was away all weekend.

So to clarify, I love Hassli, but I hate all his diving, boasting, thematics, dramatics and cheating teammates.

So I will try and do this article somewhat unbiased (don't expect much.) Here are my keys to the match:

1. Attack the Back Line

2. Cannon Time

3. Give Tiebert Room

Predicted Line-up:

Cannon, Y.P, Rusin, O'brien, Rochat, Reo-Coker, Koffie, Tiebert, Kobayashi, Camilo, Hurtado

Predicted Score:

2-2

Camilo (20), Castillo (58) , Camilo (66), Perez (75)

Castillo finds the back of the net after he uses his pace around Rochat and dangles past Rusin to slot one in past a scrambling Cannon.

Camilo quickly get's one back after Hurtado bursts past a defender and play's in a low cross that Camilo settles and fires into the bottom corner.

Sadly, Perez connects with a header late on to complete FC Dallas's abundance of chances. A corner is whipped in and he is able to flick the header backwards and into the far corner.

Final Reflections:

Tiebert will flow well and Koffie seems refreshed and works very hard. Reo-Coker seemes a bit off, and has a few bad turnovers.

Our defence is better, but still a work in progress. Cannon denies a late chance from Dallas in the dying minutes to secure the point.

P.S.

Sorry this is late, I was away all weekend.

Poll

Can Camilo finish his chances better?

Yes

1 votes

No

0 votes

Later on in the season

1 votes

2 votes | Poll has closed

Is Miller really injured or is there something else?

2013-04-19T04:23:18Z

It seems that Kenny Miller is injured still...or is he? There is a report in the Scottish Media he is unsettled here in Canada and wants a return to the huns....er...rangers. If this is so we need to rid ourselves of him as soon as we possibly can.

I thought that maybe he would show the form that got him playing for a onve stronger hun...er...rangers team, a fabulous Celtic team and also in the EPL. I think I am sadly wrong about him with our Caps.

http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/top-football-stories/rumour-mill-sfa-kenny-miller-stephen-mcmanus-1-2900398

Whitecaps vs RSL Preview/Prediction

2013-04-12T05:05:00Z

In the back of the homesick Whitecaps player's head's, they know they have to win this game. After three lack luster performances and missed chances, Saturday's 1 o'clock game will probably be a turning point for the season.But our two losses and a tie away from home, Rennie and his boy's only excuse was that they were on the road. Well, know they have the chance to take a win at home, where they beat RSL last season in a exciting match. But is it enough to say that their last few match's losses were because of the location. If we want to succeed this season, it will all start with getting another win, which will be tough after a five week absence from BC place.

Whitecaps Key's to the Match:

1. Jamaican Pride

I'm not sure if Martin's message to Darren Mattocks has sunk it yet, but we would be crazy to leave the speedster out of the lineup. He is important to our squad. I hope that Darren will come out flying, something we haven't exactly seen from him since he struggled to get into the first team last year. Mattocks will need not only his goal scoring, but his assists to score, since the RSL defence isn't the fastest without Olave, so long balls to Darren and him playing back for a power shot are not out of the question.

2. Save them for the Summer

It has been rumoured that in practice this week, Corey Hertzog and Russel Tiebert were training with the same eleven, hinting that Rennie might start them. I urge Rennie not to do this for these reasons.

Let them think: They both just had his first MLS start of the season, and I would assume their mind are racing. Letboth of them think about their mistakes and successes from last week, then maybe they will be ready for another go.

Summer time is Substitute time: Over the summer stretch, if you look at our schedule, we have multiple Wednesday matches over the Summer break, where player's will be tired. That is exactly when player's like Russel and Corey will thrive.

If we can hold those two players of at least till June (or until injuries) we should be better off.

3. D-Fense

I mentioned this point last week as well (which isn't a good sign). We need to start playing defence like we have in previous years. Just because Jay is gone, doesn't mean our player's can slack off. Someone needs to step up, preferably a center back. Over the past three games, we have conceded 5 goals, which is far from perfect. The box is our kingdom, and our defenders have to stop playing like the village fools, and become knights in shining armour (i.e. our home jerseys, which we our longing to wear).

Predicted Starting Line-Up/ Substitutes:

Cannon, Lee, Rusin, O'brien, Rochat, Davidson, Koffie, Reo-Coker, Kobayashi, Mattocks, Hurtado

Substitutes: Heinemann, Camilo, Harvey

Predicted Score:

3-1 for the Caps. We have a much more convincing game, similar to our game vs. Columbus.

Goal Scorer's:

Rochat (12), Saborio (40), Reo-Coker (51), Hurtado (79)

Rochat picks one up early for us after RSL defenders think he will cross to a looming Mattocks, but shoots one in.

Saborio connects with a header that is too hard to handle for Cannon and is punched over his raised arms.

Reo-Coker scores with a shot from inside the box that sails past Rimando's dive, and into the back of the net. Reo-Coker celebrates like the leader he is and the fans are excited and the Caps continue their excellence.

Hurtado bangs in his first after Koffie sets him free on an excellent ball forward and Hurtado hits it first time to finish it into the far bottom corner to finalize our victory.

Real Salt Lake will press hard but won't get a good chance till the end when Javier Morales breaks free from Jun Marquez Davidson and launches a hard curling effort that Joe is only able to get a finger on.

Final Thoughts:

The Whitecaps come back rejuvenated, with many chances. Our midfield plays how we like to see them (although Davidson will continue his bad spell of games lately). Our defense will look slightly better, but the Real Salt Lake gets some early chances via communication errors with Andy and Brad.

Koffie and Reo-C show their form from our first two matches. Reo-Coker plays a much more attacking role, where as Koffie sits back a bit more then usual, but plays as his strong self.

Kobayashi is somewhat quiet, but has one excellent run through the box, beating numerous defenders through his dribbling abilities, and even with the open shot, a defender back tracks him and blocks the shot.

Although Mattocks does not score, he looks like his old self. Rimando will seem to get the trick of him, making great saves on the Jamaican, but rest assured, Rennie's message to Mattocks was well received and he comes out flying.

Hurtado has a somewhat poor game, other then his run, which leads to his goal. Koffie feeds it after he works himself free from a tackle right onto the already in full gallop Hurtado, who has the easy job of finishing a wide open break away. His dribbling still seems to be a problem, and he forces too many passes. But his goal reassures everyone that he is the talend Rennie has advertised.

Heinemann comes on and looks just as good as he did against San Jose (without the hand ball of course.) He connects with a corner from Camilo, oddly with his shoulder, but it sails just right of the post. His dribbling skills, strength, and stature begin to raise comparisons of a shaggy haired Hassli.

Camilo plays a good game, making great passes and through balls. His offensive side isn't anything special, but Rennie seems to switch the formation to put Camilo into a more Attacking midfielder role. He plays a great ball for Rochat, late on after a counter attack, but the ball skips of Alain's foot.

Harvey gets his first minuted of the season, taking off Reo-Coker (who left to the sounds off a standing ovation.) Harvey plays an extremely defensive midfielder, but continues playing those great crosses we saw last year. He sends a lofted through ball to Kobayashi late on, but the Japanese midfielder is greeted by RSL defenders, after he misses the intial cross and has to retrieve the ball from the far corner. He also whips in a cross that Heinemann gets a head on, but it his Rimando straight in the chest.

Overall, I expect a great game from the Caps, and I see us pulling a victory out.

Whitecaps Key's to the Match:

1. Jamaican Pride

2. Save them for the Summer

If we can hold those two players of at least till June (or until injuries) we should be better off.

3. D-Fense

Predicted Starting Line-Up/ Substitutes:

Cannon, Lee, Rusin, O'brien, Rochat, Davidson, Koffie, Reo-Coker, Kobayashi, Mattocks, Hurtado

Substitutes: Heinemann, Camilo, Harvey

Predicted Score:

3-1 for the Caps. We have a much more convincing game, similar to our game vs. Columbus.

Goal Scorer's:

Rochat (12), Saborio (40), Reo-Coker (51), Hurtado (79)

Rochat picks one up early for us after RSL defenders think he will cross to a looming Mattocks, but shoots one in.

Saborio connects with a header that is too hard to handle for Cannon and is punched over his raised arms.

Hurtado bangs in his first after Koffie sets him free on an excellent ball forward and Hurtado hits it first time to finish it into the far bottom corner to finalize our victory.

Final Thoughts:

Koffie and Reo-C show their form from our first two matches. Reo-Coker plays a much more attacking role, where as Koffie sits back a bit more then usual, but plays as his strong self.

Overall, I expect a great game from the Caps, and I see us pulling a victory out.

Wes Knight finally gets a goal!

2013-04-08T07:53:54Z

Our old fan favourite Wes Knight scored on debut for FC Edmonton last night. With his head. It is his first ever professional goal. Worth a shout out here as he was such a loved guy, especially back at Swangard and his MLS debut in the opener against TFC in 2011. That game featured him breaking away alone on Frei and then sliding a lovely pass across to Hassli for the famous 4th goal that resulted in Hassli biting his crest and creating this iconic image.

So congrats to Worldwide Wes.

(...and forget about continuing that success in the Voyaguers Cup, mate!)

So congrats to Worldwide Wes.

(...and forget about continuing that success in the Voyaguers Cup, mate!)